Ghana has announced plans to evacuate around 300 of its nationals from South Africa following a recent surge in anti-immigrant protests that have triggered concern among foreign communities.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the decision in a post on X, saying the evacuation had been approved by the country’s president and would be carried out “immediately” to ensure the safety of affected citizens.
He said the Ghanaians concerned had already registered with the embassy in Pretoria after what authorities described as growing unease linked to recent demonstrations and warnings over possible xenophobic violence.
“The distressed citizens have been registered at the embassy and will be assisted as part of an immediate evacuation process,” Ablakwa said.
The move follows a wave of protests across several South African cities, where groups have been calling for stricter action against undocumented migrants. Demonstrators argue that illegal immigration is contributing to pressure on jobs, housing, and crime levels.
Footage widely shared online showed crowds marching with placards reading messages such as “South Africa is for South Africans,” although authorities have cautioned against some of the viral content, describing parts of it as misleading or fabricated.
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South African officials have denied reports of targeted attacks on foreigners, insisting that no verified incidents of widespread violence have been recorded. The government has instead characterised the unrest as isolated criminal behaviour rather than organised xenophobic attacks.
President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the protests and criminal incidents, stressing that they do not reflect official government policy. He said South Africa would continue to regulate migration more strictly, secure its borders, and enforce immigration laws.
“These acts do not represent the stance of government,” he said, while emphasising the need for stronger immigration control measures.
The Ghanaian embassy in Pretoria has since urged its citizens to exercise caution, avoid public gatherings, and prioritise safety. In Durban, nationals were also advised to close or suspend business operations ahead of anticipated demonstrations.
Other African countries, including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, have also issued advisories to their citizens in South Africa amid rising concerns.
Ghana has further escalated the matter diplomatically, summoning South Africa’s envoy and writing to the African Union, warning that the situation could pose a “serious risk” to the safety and wellbeing of Africans living in the country.
South Africa has rejected claims of widespread xenophobic attacks, accusing some actors of circulating “fake videos and images” to inflame tensions. The government says it has “nothing to hide” and remains committed to managing migration within the law.
South Africa hosts more than three million foreign nationals, according to official estimates, though the number of undocumented migrants is believed to be significantly higher. Xenophobic violence has been a recurring issue in the country over the years, occasionally flaring into deadly incidents.
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